What Is an Awkward Posture at Work and What Can Cause It?

In 2023, 4.1% of Spanish workers were absent from work at some point for health reasons, doubling the rate of sick leave compared with 2012. According to the Study on temporary disability and workplace accidents, prepared by the Valencian Institute of Economic Activities and Umivale Activa, these figures represent a cost of more than €17 billion per year, or 1.4% of Spain's GDP. 

As warned by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, musculoskeletal disorders are one of the leading causes of illness and sick leave, particularly affecting the back, neck, limbs and shoulders. Awkward postures at work have a direct impact on the development of these conditions, which can become disabling. Let's look at what they are and their main causes.  

What awkward postures at work are and the injuries they can cause 

We refer to awkward postures at work when a professional is required to maintain a body position that is not natural while carrying out their duties. They include any posture that causes strain on the joints, tendons, muscles or ligaments. 

As stated in the document Work postures: risk assessment, prepared by the National Institute for Safety and Health at Work, the most common health effect is pain, but repeated poor postures can lead to persistent conditions. There are different stages depending on the effects caused. 

• A first stage, in which discomfort appears and may turn into pain and fatigue during working hours, but disappears during breaks or at the end of the workday. 
• A second stage, in which the pain persists outside work activities, although it may subside during holidays or extended rest periods. 
• In the third stage, the damage becomes chronic and pain can only be relieved with specific treatments. It can lead to permanent sick leave and affect the worker's personal life.

Depending on the type of work and the professional's physical and psychological conditions, the consequences of awkward postures may vary. Here are the most common ones. 

Musculoskeletal injuries  

Poor posture can cause a wide range of injuries, including tendonitis, bursitis, neck and shoulder pain, plantar fasciitis and spinal injuries, among others. 

Emotional disorders 

The discomfort caused by unnatural postures can lead to stress and job dissatisfaction when it continues over time. 

Exhaustion 

Productivity can be affected when awkward postures at work are repeated, triggering prolonged physical and mental fatigue.

Circulation problems 

This occurs when the awkward posture is prolonged, as natural blood flow is reduced, often accompanied by an uncomfortable feeling of numbness.  

What are the most common causes of awkward postures at work?

Many factors can force a worker to maintain an awkward posture. In many cases, there is even a combination of causes that increase discomfort and the risk of workplace injuries and accidents. Here are the most common ones.

1. Handling heavy loads 

Lifting or carrying heavy loads is part of the regular duties of workers in various sectors, such as industry. When movements used to handle the load are performed incorrectly, unnatural postures are often required. Following the guidelines in the Technical guide for assessing and preventing risks related to manual handling of loads is the best way to reduce the risk of injury. 

2. Inadequate workplace design 

Workspaces should be ergonomically designed to prevent awkward postures. It is important for materials and tools to be positioned at an appropriate height so they can be reached without effort, for furniture to be adjustable to the needs and physical conditions of each worker, and for there to be enough space for professionals to move freely and change position. 

3. Stress and lack of rest 

Pressure to meet production targets can require extra effort and lead workers to overuse awkward postures to speed up work, increasing the risk of injury. Establishing rest periods is essential for recovering from improper strain on the body. 

4. Wearing unsuitable footwear 

The type of footwear worn by workers also has a significant influence on body posture. It is important to have professional footwear designed to help maintain a neutral posture and cushion impacts. In addition, the slip-resistant sole of shoes helps workers remain stable on different surfaces, prevents them from adopting unsuitable postures to maintain balance and, in sectors such as industry, reduces the risk of workplace accidents. 

Preventing awkward postures at work helps minimise potential injuries and improves professional productivity. Using appropriate work footwear promotes correct posture and reduces the risk of workplace accidents. At Shoes For Crews, we can help you find the most suitable model for your team. Contact us and we will provide all the information you need.